Integrating Quotations into Sentences

A quotation should never stand alone as a complete sentence. Using quotations provides textual
evidence to support your answer.

Example Question: Explain the significance of “Do you still play the accordion?” (185)

1. Introduce the quotation with a complete sentence and a colon.

Example: Max’s question reminds Hans of his link with Max’s father, Erik Vandenburg: “Do
you still play the accordion?” (185)

2. Use an introductory or explanatory phrase, but not a complete sentence, separated by a

comma.
Example: Max’s question, “Do you still play the accordion” (185), to Hans reminds him of his
friendship to Erik Vandenburg.

3. Make the quotation a part of your own sentence without any extra punctuation.
Example: Max’s question to Hans “do you still play the accordion” (185) demonstrates the link
between Hans and Max’s father, Erik Vandenburg.

Full Complete Answer Example: (what I’m looking for from your responses)
Max asks Hans “do you still play the accordion” (185) when he first arrives at Himmel
Street. This question reminds Hans of his friendship with Max’s father Erik Vandenburg who
saved his life during the war. The accordion belonged to Erik and Hans has kept it over the years.

Remember: Your answer should contain part of the question to help the reader understand the
context. Write your response as if the reader does not know the question.

Assignment:
What is the significance of “Beneath her shirt, a book was eating her up?” (122)